500 roosters seized in cockfighting raids

May 21, 2010 12:00:00 AM PDT

ANAHEIM, Calif. --

Authorities in Orange County and San Diego County have staged a series of raids as they try to break up a major cockfighting operation.Search warrants were served at three locations. The locations included a restaurant in Anaheim, a home in Fullerton and a building in Pauma Valley.

The raids were simultaneous. 500 roosters were seized, as well as hundreds of cockfighting knives and trophies.

Investigators say the cockfight events were held at a ranch north of Escondido.

All three properties belong to the same man, identified as a 66-year-old restaurateur. He was not present during the searches. His name was not released.